This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the upper radiator hose on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Hose clamp (radiator side) × 1 — 16401-0H050 or equivalent
• Hose clamp (engine side) × 1 — 16401-0H050 or equivalent

Fluids

• Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure the engine is completely cold to the touch
2. Park the vehicle on level ground and engage the parking brake
3. Open the hood and secure it in the open position
4. Place a drain pan beneath the radiator drain cock on the driver's side lower corner of the radiator

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain the cooling system
   Slowly turn the radiator cap counterclockwise to release any residual pressure, then remove it completely. Open the radiator drain cock at the lower driver's side corner of the radiator and drain approximately 2-3 quarts of coolant into the drain pan. Close the drain cock once the coolant level drops below the upper radiator hose connection point.
2. 2

   Locate the upper radiator hose connections
   The upper radiator hose runs from the upper passenger side of the radiator to the engine-side coolant outlet housing located on the front of the engine block near the thermostat housing. Identify both spring-type or screw-type hose clamps at each end.
3. 3

   Remove the radiator-side hose clamp
   If equipped with a spring clamp, use pliers to compress the clamp ears and slide it back along the hose away from the radiator neck. If equipped with a screw-type clamp, use a flathead screwdriver to loosen the clamp screw and slide the clamp back along the hose. Position the clamp at least 2 inches away from the radiator connection.
4. 4

   Remove the engine-side hose clamp
   Using the same method as the radiator side, remove or reposition the hose clamp at the engine coolant outlet connection. Slide the clamp back along the hose to provide clearance for hose removal.
5. 5

   Remove the upper radiator hose
   Twist the hose gently while pulling to break the seal at both the radiator neck and engine outlet. Pull the hose off both connections. Some residual coolant will drain from the hose and connections, so keep the drain pan positioned appropriately. Inspect the radiator neck and engine outlet for cracks or damage.
6. 6

   Prepare the new upper radiator hose
   Clean the radiator neck and engine coolant outlet with a shop towel to remove any old coolant residue or debris. Inspect the new hose to ensure it matches the old hose configuration. If reusing clamps, verify they are not damaged, rusted, or deformed. Install new clamps onto the new hose before installation, positioning them approximately 1 inch from each end.
7. 7

   Install the new upper radiator hose
   Push the radiator-side end of the new hose firmly onto the radiator neck until it seats completely against the stop ridge. Then push the engine-side end onto the coolant outlet until fully seated. Ensure both ends are pushed on as far as possible to prevent leaks.
8. 8

   Secure the hose clamps
   Slide the radiator-side clamp into position over the radiator neck, approximately 1/4 inch from the end of the hose. Tighten screw-type clamps to the specified torque. Repeat for the engine-side clamp. Ensure clamps are positioned over the raised bead area of each connection fitting.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Refill the cooling system
   Pour Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (pink) into the radiator until the level reaches the base of the filler neck. Install the radiator cap. Start the engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature with the heater on maximum heat setting. Watch the temperature gauge to ensure it stays in the normal range.
10. 10

    Burp the cooling system
    With the engine at operating temperature, allow it to run for 5-10 minutes to purge air from the system. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes. Once cool enough to safely touch the radiator cap, slowly remove the cap and check the coolant level. Add additional coolant as needed to bring the level back to the base of the filler neck. Reinstall the radiator cap.

Reassembly

1. Verify the radiator cap is installed securely
2. Check the coolant reservoir level and top off to the FULL mark if needed
3. Wipe down any coolant spills on engine components or frame
4. Verify all tools have been removed from the engine bay

Verification

• Start the engine and visually inspect both hose connections for leaks while the engine warms up
• Check that the temperature gauge reaches and maintains normal operating temperature
• After the vehicle has been driven and cooled down, recheck the coolant level in both the radiator and reservoir
• Inspect underneath the vehicle for any coolant drips or puddles after the first test drive
• Verify there are no coolant odors from the engine bay during or after operation

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